Find the top rated birding trails in District of Columbia, whether you're looking for an easy short birding trail or a long birding trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a birding trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
Much better over the weekend when you go on beach drive with new pavement!
This was my first ride on the C & O in years. I've stayed away due to rough gravel, pot holes, and rocks that even my hybrid couldn't overcome. But recently I heard that there had been resurfacing at Shepherdstown. What a world of difference! Crushed limestone that is compacted into a very level trail. We rode north from Dargan Bend to a couple miles past Shepherdstown. Dargan Bend was the closest parking lot we could find across from Harper's Ferry. Being there in late fall, the trees were bare but the river views were great. The trail north of Shepherdstown is gravel with rocks protruding here and there, making for a rough ride. We only traveled until hitting 10 miles from our start before turning back. Our timing couldn't have been worse as there was some kind of a foot race going on, but since we traveled 100 miles to get here we rode anyway. (I checked the NPS.gov website before going but saw no mention of the race, so not sure how one finds out about events on the towpath.) Overall, though, it was a great 20 mile ride.
We did about twelve miles of the western part. Really pretty. We will be back!
I rode the Paint Branch Trail starting at Cherry Hill Park, connected to the Northeast Branch Trail and then to the Anacostia Trail to arrive at Anacostia River Park and then returned.
From the end of the Northeast Branch Trail I proceeded south on the Anacostia River Trail to Anacostia River Park. As was the case for the Paint Branch and Northeast Branch Trails, the Anacostia River Trail was paved (mostly asphalt) all the way and relatively smooth. There are a couple of wooden bridges including a large one over the river that descends into Bladensburg Waterfront Park. There are restrooms and water there. The trail continues into DC and becomes more urban including a section (very comfortable) that runs through a residential area. There are a couple of hills and then a climb to a bridge over the railroad yard that descends into Anacostia River Park.
Just discovered this trail today. Beautiful scenery and wide open asphalt trail. I walked it for an hour and only saw 2 people, so there’s no heavy foot traffic. Parking at Oxon Hill Farm is plentiful. Beware near the start of the trail there is a pretty significant downhill grade, which was nice to walk. But the trail is not a loop, so you have to walk back up. If you’re out of shape like me or new to walking/running for fitness, it’s a bit of a beast to walk back up.
First ride today. A few places impacted by construction, but in great shape overall and quick ride from upper Northeast to NoMa. And wow, the street art along the way!
Love it. As other review mentioned, pretty crowded on the weekend.
First time on this trail today - entire length from Bethesda to Georgetown waterfront and back. Well maintained and an easy ride, but spent a fair amount of time passing joggers, families with strollers, and slower riders. Still, a satisfying experience, and will ride again soon!
I really enjoy this trail. I am a new bike rider. I found this trail coming from Potomac MD. I was on Mc Author blvd. I found an opening to a trail and I found this trail. What a find!!!! I bike here 2-3x a week. A bit crowded near Bethesda but overall a great path for bikes, walking and running.
This trail is good for people who want an urban experience, especially on a weekend morning as the city slowly awakes. Lots of places to stop for food and drinks - even shopping - along the way.
This trail is really nice to run, walk, and bike. It has wide asphalt paths with a few quick hills.
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